While there have been plenty of stories in the last year to challenge stereotypes about homelessness, the installation of anti-homelessness spike by Selfridge's Manchester store shows we have a long way yet to go.
This series of photos posted by one Imgur user confronts our worst opinions about homeless people by revealing one critical fact about themselves. From the man who can speak four languages to the lady who used to be a personal trainer, they speak to us in a powerful way.
Take a look...
Since December, there have been some amazing stories around connecting the homeless with people who may have preconceptions.
In Belgium, a project to leave food for homeless people in an outdoor fridge touched our hearts, as did a story about a student who raised thousands for a homeless man who lent her £3 in a time of need.
